Buddy Up to Cool Down

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Take advantage of boot camp team spirit and partner up for postworkout stretches.

Boot camp workouts are an intense, multifaceted way to get in shape. People get a chance to experience diverse movements while exploring a range of energy systems. It’s a well-rounded fitness opportunity for everyone, and there’s a bonus: the group training environment facilitates camaraderie and competition. Since intensity is high, heart rates will definitely be elevated, and muscles, joints, tendons and ligaments will experience various levels of overload. It is therefore absolutely essential to end with a cool-down.

To facilitate a gradual transition, ask participants to walk, jog or do anything else that gives the body a chance to return slowly to a pre-exertion state. The cool-down is also the perfect time to incorporate flexibility exercises, because muscle tissue is warm and pliable. To continue the culture of camaraderie, pair people up for some of the stretches. This helps create a cohesive group where everyone enjoys a sense of belonging. When participants feel welcome, they also feel accountable to the group and are more likely to show up for class. This commitment is great for participants and for your business.

Try the following partner-based stretches to create a fun, interactive cool-down for your boot camp class.

Once thigh is as close to chest as possible, Partner 2 provides pressure to outside of Partner 1’s R knee, bringing it across body toward left (L) shoulder until Partner 1 feels stretch on right gluteus muscle.

About the Author

Brett Klika is the director of athletic performance at Fitness Quest 10 in San Diego, California. He specializes in youth fitness and athletic performance. Brett oversees a staff of eight strength coa...